5 signs that show that your dog may have a food allergy. Be aware!

 5 signs that show that your dog may have a food allergy. Be aware!

Just like humans, dogs can also develop food allergies, which are adverse reactions to certain ingredients present in food. These allergies can cause discomfort, harm their health and even affect their behavior. Identifying the signs early is essential to provide relief and well-being to your four-legged friend. Here are the 5 main signs that your dog may be suffering from a food allergy:

1. Excessive itching and skin irritation

If your dog is constantly scratching itself, biting its paws or rubbing its body on furniture and the floor, this may be an indication of a food allergy. These symptoms usually appear in areas such as the ears, paws, belly and armpits. The irritation can develop into redness, inflammation or even sores due to excessive itching.

What to do: Consult a veterinarian to determine the cause. They may recommend an elimination diet to identify the problematic food.

2. Gastrointestinal problems

Diarrhea, vomiting, and frequent gas are other common signs of food allergies in dogs. Although these symptoms can also be caused by other health problems, persistent or recurring symptoms after certain meals may indicate an intolerance or allergy to some component of the food or food offered.

What to do: Monitor your dog's eating habits and note any symptoms. Avoid offering human foods or new treats until you talk to your veterinarian.

3. Recurrent ear infections

Ear infections, especially those that recur even after treatment, may be associated with food allergies. You may notice discharge, an unpleasant odor, intense itching, or frequent head shaking.

What to do: Tell your veterinarian about recurrent infections and ask if there is a possibility of a food allergy. Changing the diet may be part of the treatment.

4. Excessive paw licking

One of the most typical signs of food allergies in dogs is continuous paw licking. This is because the allergic reaction can cause inflammation and discomfort in these areas, leading the dog to try to relieve the discomfort by licking.

What to do: Inspect your dog's paws for redness, swelling or lesions. Switching to a hypoallergenic formula may help, but always under veterinary supervision.

5. Changes in fur and skin

Food allergies can manifest as hair loss, hair loss, or dry, scaly skin. In some cases, you may notice areas of crusting or flaking.

What to do: Try gentle shampoos to temporarily relieve symptoms and take your dog to the vet for a more complete diagnosis.

What causes food allergies in dogs?

The foods most associated with allergies in dogs include:

Common proteins: chicken, beef, lamb and eggs.

Dairy products: cheese and yogurt can trigger reactions in some dogs.

Grains: wheat, corn or soy (although these are more related to intolerance than allergy).

How to diagnose and treat food allergies?

The best way to identify the cause is to perform an elimination diet, which involves replacing the current diet with a hypoallergenic diet prescribed by your veterinarian. This may take a few weeks, but it is essential to find out which foods should be avoided.

Also, remember to never medicate your dog without veterinary guidance. Improper treatment can worsen the symptoms or mask the problem.

Conclusion

Food allergies can be uncomfortable for your dog, but by paying attention to the signs and following your veterinarian's advice, it is possible to identify the problem and provide relief. If you notice any of the signs mentioned, seek professional help and be willing to adjust your pet's diet. After all, ensuring the health and well-being of your best friend is always a priority!